When companies are sourcing polystyrene for their products, the sustainability of the material should be a top consideration. The growing consumer demand for eco-friendly goods underscores this need. According to a CPG report, 92% of shoppers expressed the importance of sustainability when considering what brands to buy. Furthermore, McKinsey & Co. found that half of consumers are willing to pay more for ecological packaging. This trend highlights a significant shift in buyer behavior, pushing businesses to prioritize these in their operations.
RAPAC, the largest recycler of polystyrene in the United States, exemplifies the role of green manufacturing in the supply chain. Companies from across the country send us their polystyrene scrap, and our processes ensure that these components retain their value and ability to be reused. By implementing an efficient system, we accumulate large quantities of polystyrene that would otherwise end up in landfills or incinerators.
RAPAC’s commitment to a circular economy goes beyond polystyrene collection. We believe that recycled resins offer a more eco-friendly alternative to their virgin counterparts, requiring less energy and resources to produce. Our approach prevents waste and significantly reduces the carbon footprint associated with virgin plastic production. For example, plastic recycling saves between 30% and 80% of the carbon emissions compared to producing new plastic from raw medium, illustrating the substantial environmental benefits of reusing material.
Closing the loop on polystyrene, our EcoSix resins are designed to be used again and again, offering a solution that aligns with circular economy principles, minimizing waste generation and maximizing resource efficiency. This creates a compelling incentive for the entire supply chain to adopt ecological practices.
Furthermore, recycled polystyrene resins from RAPAC maintain high durability that is comparable to virgin substances, with independent testing proving that EcoSix products perform as well or better than new polystyrene. Our proprietary operations ensure that the resins meet stringent quality standards, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, from loose fill for void applications to filler bead for beanbags and furniture.
Our recycled resins not only support sustainability but also offer financial benefits. Businesses can cut costs, as our products are more cost-effective than newly created polystyrene. This allows them to achieve goals without compromising on budget, all while maintaining value and the high-quality standards expected in our resins. By choosing EcoSix, companies are investing in a solution that is both environmentally and economically advantageous.
RAPAC’s process lessens waste, conserves resources, and provides green, quality, cost-effective polystyrene options for brands and consumers alike. By integrating recycled resins into the supply chain, organizations can significantly reduce their eco footprint and increase durability while aligning with the increasing customer requests for eco-conscious goods.
As the demand for eco-friendly products continues to rise, businesses must prioritize sourcing sustainable materials to remain competitive. RAPAC's role in polystyrene recycling offers a model for other companies to follow. By embracing recycled resins and supporting a circular economy, brands can lower their environmental impact, meet market expectations, and contribute to a more viable future.